A Durham University graduate who describes herself as "a North Easterner through and through" has been named as the region's new BBC boss.
Wendy Pilmer takes over as Newcastle-based head of regional and local programmes for BBC North East and Cumbria at the end of October.
She succeeds Olwyn Hocking, who has moved to a new post in the BBC English Regions' website operation.
Ms Pilmer, a native of the region, is currently network manager for BBC Radio 4.
"I lived for 21 years in the North-East and continue to spend much of my leisure time there," she said.
"I see my new roles as not only ensuring that the region is reflected back to itself in its diversity, but that the BBC as a whole is represented to its audience in the region. I will also be the region's champion within the BBC."
Her new job gives her responsibility for television, radio and online output in the region at a time the BBC is investing more in programmes outside London.
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